Ball takes over at Sunderland
Kevin Ball has been confirmed as Sunderland caretaker manager until the end of the season.
Ball, a tough-tackling midfielder during his playing career with the club, is currently Academy assistant manager.
The appointment as caretaker manager follows the sacking of former manager Mick McCarthy.
Ball, will be in charge of the remaining 10 games of the season as Sunderland look for an improbable escape from relegation to the Coca-Cola Championship.
Sunderland chairman Bob Murray told the club’s official website, www.safc.co.: “We have appointed Kevin Ball caretaker manager until the end of the season and hope supporters will give him their full backing.
“Kevin has always felt passionately about Sunderland and is a true professional. His grit, determination and leadership qualities have always been greatly appreciated by Sunderland fans and the club.
“Sunderland fans have been incredibly tolerant and supportive in the last few months, which have been very difficult, and I would also like to thank them for that.
“Now is the time to give Kevin Ball and the team support to try to get back to winning ways.”
